Tower of Power

Tower of Power, co-founded by tenor saxophonist and vocalist Emilio Castillo and baritone saxophonist Stephen ‘Doc’ Kupka, began performing in 1968, rapidly developing a robust following and performing at Bill Graham’s Fillmore Auditorium. In 1970, the band signed with San Francisco Records, releasing their debut album, ‘East Bay Grease,’ featuring Rufus Miller on lead vocals. Their strategic move to Warner Bros. Records in 1972 marked a significant turning point, with the release of ‘Bump City,’ featuring Rick Stevens on lead vocals.

The band continued its prolific output, releasing ‘Back to Oakland’ in 1974, which featured ‘Don’t Change Horses (in the Middle of a Stream)’ reaching No. 26 on the Billboard Hot 100 that same year. Further cementing their distinctive sound, they released ‘Urban Renewal’ in 1974. Throughout their illustrious career, Tower of Power has charted eight songs on the Billboard Hot 100, including enduring hits like ‘What Is Hip?’ Beyond their own albums, the iconic Tower of Power horn section has become a highly sought-after collaborator, lending its distinctive sound to a diverse array of recordings for artists such as Aerosmith, Santana, Eric Clapton, Stevie Nicks, Elton John, and Bonnie Raitt.

The band remains an active force, consistently delivering electrifying shows that captivate fans globally and reinforcing their reputation as pioneers of East Bay funk.